About the opportunity
Are you interested in influencing the future of sustainable food innovation in Europe? This PhD position at DTU National Food Institute offers a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of food biotechnology, regulation, and innovation. You will develop expertise in understanding European regulatory frameworks, conducting risk assessment, and implementing emerging food technologies while collaborating closely with researchers, food safety authorities, and other stakeholders. Through your research and communication of the results, you will help explore how regulation can support both responsible innovation and sustainable development in the food sector. The project is expected to include a research stay abroad at a leading scientific advice and risk assessment institution such as EFSA or a comparable institution in other EU Member States.
Salary and benefits
- Employment based on the collective agreement with the Danish Confederation of Professional Associations
- Competitive salary and appointment terms structured for scientific staff at DTU
- 3-year period of employment as a full-time position
- Opportunity to join free relocation seminars and support for moving to Denmark
Who can apply?
- Holds a two-year MSc degree (120 ECTS) or equivalent in food science, food technology, biotechnology, public policy, science and technology studies, or a related field
- Strong interest in food biotechnology and its regulatory and societal dimensions
- Ability to work independently and drive a research project forward
- Eager to engage with people and to build diverse professional networks
- Enjoys translating complex topics to different audiences and communicating the outcomes
- Demonstrates strong analytical and critical thinking skills
Required documents
- A letter motivating the application (cover letter)
- Curriculum vitae
- Grade transcripts and BSc/MSc diploma (in English) including official description of grading scale
When to apply
- Application deadline is 23 September 2026 (23:59 Danish time)
- Starting date is 1 January 2027 (or according to mutual agreement)
How to apply
- Open the online application link
- Fill out the online application form
- Attach all required materials in English merged into one single PDF file
Additional information
- The assessment of candidates will be conducted by Assistant Professor Robin Dorau and Senior Scientific Officer Agnieszka Podolska-Charlery.
- Open-source background checks may be conducted on qualified candidates due to research in critical technology subject to export control and security rules.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Applicants holding a two-year MSc degree or equivalent in food science, food technology, biotechnology, public policy, or science and technology studies.
- Candidates with a strong interest in the regulatory, risk assessment, and societal dimensions of food biotechnology.
- Individuals who enjoy independent project work, stakeholder networking, and translating complex academic topics for diverse audiences.
- Researchers seeking an on-site, fully funded three-year PhD opportunity in Denmark that includes a mandatory research stay abroad.
What should you think carefully about?
- Relocation to Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark, is required for this on-site position, though free relocation seminars and moving support are available.
- Applicants must carefully merge all required materials, including an English CV, grade transcripts, and a motivational cover letter, into a single PDF.
- Candidates should note that open-source background checks may be conducted due to export control and security rules governing critical technology research.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This fully funded three-year PhD scholarship directly supports researchers aiming to build deep expertise in European food biotechnology regulation and risk assessment. It offers a structured pathway to advance academic credentials while gaining international exposure through a planned research stay at a leading institution like EFSA.
Our take
This position is a stellar fit for graduate candidates with a background in biotechnology or public policy looking to bridge science and regulation. Those unable to relocate to Denmark or meet the strict single-PDF documentation requirements should look elsewhere.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
Official-source verified
